Podcast host and famed UFC commentator Joe Rogan has weighed in on the ongoing hysteria around the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
On January 18, it was confirmed that the ‘Sussexes’ would relinquish their Royal ‘HRH’ titles, as they formally step back from all Royal duties. They’re also moving to Vancouver, where they will split time between there and their UK home.
“Megxit”, as it has been dubbed in the UK press, has caused a media frenzy, as The Queen was reportedly not informed of the couple’s intentions, finding out via the news.
Joe Rogan, who has little connection to the British isles, asked his podcast guest Mike Baker, a former CIA officer of dual American and British citizenship, to break the situation down for him.
After Baker explained the predicament, including the large sums of money which members of the Royal Family receive, Rogan was taken aback. “What kind of goofy sh*t is that?! They give them $58 million to ‘help finance the extensive renovation of Buckingham Palace’.”
While doing his best impression of The Queen herself, he highlighted the disparity of wealth. “Imagine being a poor person, and finding out that The Queen, who literally does nothing, is making $100 million in a year. […] Everybody’s like brainwashed over there.”
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Baker explained that a major discussion point of Harry and Meghan’s exit is to do with finances, and their ability to monetize themselves. As members of the Royal Family, they are not permitted to make money from the ‘brand’.
“So the idea is that you’re getting paid enough?” Rogan asks, “Just, what a goofy system. Just giving them money for free, to be a Royal. […] What does that even entail?”
In their statement on January 18, it is made clear that Harry and Meghan will be repaying the several million in public money which was used for renovations on their UK family home, Frogmore Cottage.
While Joe Rogan was unimpressed by the setup of the Royal Family overall, he seemed to respect the Sussexes’ decision to leave, and pursue their own ‘financial independence.’
“They’re already so popular, all they need to do is start endorsing makeup lines, and sneaker and watches and sh*t,” he said. Baker agreed, pointing out the massive following Meghan Markle has on Instagram, and how easily it could be monetized.
Their departure may have split opinion in the United Kingdom, but it appears Rogan thinks the couple are better on their own, than in the “goofy” Royal Family system.